The drain – cleaning industry has witnessed a significant transformation with Ridgid’s introduction of the FlexShaft series. After the success of the first two versions, the K9 – 102 (1319), Ridgid is set to launch the new Full – Size FlexShaft K9 – 306 ($3959) this summer, which could potentially reshape drain – cleaning practices.
Enhanced Power for Greater Efficiency
The initial FlexShaft units were designed to operate with a standard cordless drill, a feature that was both cost – effective and convenient. It made the system completely cordless, leveraging the existing battery platform, and utilized the drill clutch to prevent over – torqueing while keeping the unit compact and lightweight.
However, the K9 – 306 takes a different approach. It is equipped with a dedicated 1.5HP motor, which provides the necessary power to clean 6” lines. This motor can draw up to 15 amps and maintain the chain spinning at 2000 RPMs (measured at the chain head). To support this increased power, the K9 – 306 comes with a full 125’ of 3/8” FlexShaft Cable.
Size and Practicality Considerations
While the K9 – 306 sacrifices some of the appealing features of the original FlexShafts, such as being non – cordless, its bulky size (over 36” tall), heavy weight (160 lbs), and higher price tag (comparable to full – size drum machines like the Ridgid K – 7500) may raise questions about its popularity.
Nevertheless, the new model retains the key aspects that make the FlexShaft unique. It allows for the simultaneous use of SeeSnake Cameras along with the FlexShaft in the line during cleaning. It excels at cleaning the pipe wall – to – wall, achieving results similar to a jetter. Unlike C – Cutters, which may only punch a hole through the blockage and cause the stoppage to return quickly, the FlexShaft provides more comprehensive cleaning. Additionally, it can navigate through pipe transitions effectively, ensuring optimal cleaning even when dealing with different pipe sizes. This makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from kitchen grease removal to tackling heavy scale and root build – up.
Safety, Cleanliness, and Professionalism
The FlexShaft offers a higher level of cleanliness, professionalism, and safety compared to traditional drain – cleaning methods. When used in customer – facing locations such as restaurants, daycares, healthcare facilities, or on new carpets, the cable is housed inside a nylon sheath within a fully contained drum. This design significantly reduces the risk of making a mess on the customer’s premises. Moreover, as the line is retracted, the nylon cable can be cleaned, further enhancing cleanliness. The cables in the FlexShaft also seem to have a longer lifespan than traditional drum and sectional cables in smaller units.
Impact on Existing Drain Cleaners
Ridgid claims that the FlexShaft models have not cannibalized their other drain – cleaning sales. Instead, they have served as add – on units that simplify certain jobs, making them quicker, easier, and more profitable.
However, the larger K9 – 306 may be more challenging to position as an add – on unit. It requires more space in the truck, a larger financial investment, and has similar setup times compared to drum machines. This could potentially lead to a division among users into three camps: those who prefer drum machines, sectional units, or FlexShafts.
Related topics:
- RIDGID’s NEW FlexShaft K9-204+ Drain Cleaning Machine
- RIDGID announces K9-12 FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine
- RIDGID FlexShaft In The Fight Against Blockages
